Box of Champix Varenicline Tablets used to help adults quit smoking

Champix (Varenicline)

Champix (Varenicline) Tablets are prescription-only medication that assists adults in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms through partial stimulation of nicotine receptors in the brain.
Packaging and branding may vary.

This product is currently out of stock and unavailable.

What is Champix

Champix is a nicotine-free medication that has been proven to be an effective treatment for helping people to quit smoking. Champix reduces the craving and withdrawal symptoms an addict may experience when they stop smoking.

How Does Champix Work?

People smoke for a variety of reasons. These include gaining pleasure, boosting their mood, producing a sense of wellbeing, improving memory and concentration, to pass time among others. However, excessive smoking can be detrimental to a person’s physical, social, psychological and financial health. Nicotine is the primary addictive component in tobacco that when used excessively can reduce the level of monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzyme in the body and brain. Low levels of MAO lead to an increase in dopamine that influences a person to continue smoking because the brain assumes that smoking generates pleasure. Eventually, on becomes an addict and is at risk of developing lung cancer. Champix works by imitating the effects of nicotine in the body and brain. It stops the receptors in the brain from getting attached to nicotine, thus relieving the symptoms experienced during nicotine withdrawal.

Champix reduces craving for nicotine, stops cigarette addiction, relieves withdrawal symptoms, and reduces irritability, anxiety, and depression caused by the urge to smoke.
Prescription Only Medicine (POM)
Packaging and branding may vary depending on supplier.

Directions

Always read and follow the patient information leaflet (PIL) provided with the medicine before use.

  • Dosage:

    • Days 1–3: 0.5 mg once daily

    • Days 4–7: 0.5 mg twice daily

    • Day 8 onwards: 1 mg twice daily

  • Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Champix can be taken with or without food.

  • Treatment Duration: Typically 12 weeks. An additional 12-week course may be recommended to maintain abstinence.

  • Precautions: Do not exceed the recommended dose. If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor.

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient: Varenicline tartrate

  • Inactive Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, calcium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol, indigo carmine aluminium lake (E132) (for 1 mg tablets), glycerol triacetate. Please refer to the specific product packaging for a complete list.

How Does It Work?

Champix contains varenicline, a partial agonist of the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. By partially stimulating these receptors, it alleviates withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with nicotine addiction. Additionally, it blocks nicotine from binding to these receptors, reducing the rewarding effects of smoking.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Insomnia

  • Abnormal dreams

  • Dry mouth

Serious side effects (rare):

  • Mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts

  • Seizures

  • Cardiovascular events

  • Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling)

If you experience any side effects or symptoms while taking this medication, please consult your GP or a healthcare professional.

Who Should Avoid

Do not take Champix if you:

  • Are allergic to varenicline or any other ingredients in the tablets

  • Are under 18 years of age

Consult your doctor before use if you:

  • Have a history of mental health issues

  • Have kidney problems

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Are taking other medications

Storage Instructions

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep the tablets in their original packaging

  • Protect from moisture and light

  • Keep out of reach of children

  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging

  • Yes, it's common to continue smoking during the first week of treatment. Aim to stop smoking on your quit date, which should be set within the first 1–2 weeks of starting Champix.

  • Champix works by partially stimulating nicotine receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also decreasing the satisfaction derived from smoking.

  • Champix is intended for adults over 18 years of age. It's not recommended for use in children or adolescents. Consult your doctor to determine if it's appropriate for you.

  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

  • You should begin taking Champix 1–2 weeks before your planned quit date to allow the medication to build up in your system.